Lumbar spondylolysis in children and adolescents

Overview of Radiological Classification Systems for Pars Interarticularis Stress Injuries-and Proposal of the BROPI Classification

Pars interarticularis stress injury and spondylolysis are frequent causes of back pain among young athletes. Accurate diagnosis and grading of these conditions are essential to institute appropriate management strategies in order to achieve optimal outcomes. The aim of management strategies for acute active spondylolysis stress reactions and stress fractures is to achieve bone healing while avoiding recurrence and non-union, with the ultimate goal of returning to sports as determined by symptom resolution. Although various radiological classification systems for spondylolysis have been described, their application for prognostication and surveillance has been limited. The development of a standardised, validated classification system that guides management decisions and predicts healing outcomes would immensely benefit radiologists and clinicians. This article reviews the current imaging recommendations for diagnosing and grading pars stress injuries and spondylolysis before proposal of a novel radiological classification system. The system utilises standard MRI sagittal sequences with clear inter- and intra-observer agreement. We aim to validate the classification system through interrogation of the injury, clinical and return-to-play data in young athletes, with an aim to determine early prognostic accuracy of pars stress injuries.

Rigid Thoracolumbar Orthosis Does Not Improve Outcomes of Acute Adolescent Spondylolysis as Compared With Placebo. Bony Union Predicts Improved Health-Related Quality of Life Outcomes at 2-Year Follow-Up

STUDY DESIGN

A prospective, comparative study on clinical, radiographic, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) outcomes in adolescents with acute spondylolysis treated with a rigid thoracolumbar orthosis (Boston brace) or with a placebo (elastic lumbar support) with a 2-year follow-up time.

OBJECTIVE

To compare outcomes of acute adolescent spondylolysis treated with a rigid thoracolumbar orthosis or a placebo with a 2-year follow-up time.

BACKGROUND

The benefits of the use of rigid orthosis for the treatment of spondylolysis and achieving a bony union of spondylolysis remain unclear.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Sixty consecutive patients with acute spondylolysis were prospectively enrolled. Three patients were excluded from the analysis as they did not fulfil the inclusion criteria. The first 14 patients were randomized, and the remaining 46 chose the treatment method themselves. Treatment time was 4 months, and the follow-up time was 2 years. HRQoL was measured using the Scoliosis Research Society-24 (SRS-24) outcome questionnaire. The primary outcome was the HRQoL at 24 months and whether treatment type, bony union of the spondylolysis, or development of spondylolisthesis affected it.

RESULTS

Thirty (30/57) patients were treated with a Boston brace, and 27 (27/57) patients with a placebo. The bony union rate of spondylolysis did not differ between study groups (20/30 vs. 17/27, respectively, P = 0.789). The HRQoL did not differ between treatment groups in the SRS-24 domains through follow-up ( P > 0.05 for all). Five patients (5/57) developed spondylolisthesis (mean slip: 4.2 mm) during the 2-year follow-up time. Nonunion of the spondylolysis predicted the development of spondylolisthesis ( P = 0.005), but the treatment type did not affect it ( P > 0.05). Two years after treatment, patients who had bony union had higher SRS-24 total ( P = 0.005) and satisfaction domain ( P < 0.001) compared with patients with nonunion.

CONCLUSION

A rigid brace is not necessary for the treatment of acute spondylolysis. Achieving a bony union of adolescent spondylolysis is desirable as their HRQoL is higher at 2 years.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level II.

Comparative analysis of morphologival parameters in isolated and fused L5 spondylolysis patients on the basis of CT features

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

The classification of lumbar spondylolysis varies, and there is currently no clear consensus on a standardized system. This study examines the morphological characteristics and parameter differences of the L5 vertebra in patients with isolated versus fused spondylolysis using CT measurements. It also proposes a preliminary classification system based on the separation distance at the fracture site and explores its clinical significance.

METHODS

A total of 117 young male patients with L5 spondylolysis related to high-intensity physical activity were enrolled. Patients with a pars interarticularis separation distance ≥ 2 mm were classified into the isolated group (Group A, 66 patients), while those with a separation distance < 1 mm were classified into the fused group (Group B, 51 patients).Additionally, 117 patients without spondylolysis but experiencing lower back pain were included as the control group (group C). Multislice spiral computed tomography (MSCT) was used to measure the morphological parameters of the L5 vertebra in all three groups, including the sagittal pedicle height (SPH), transverse pedicle width (TPW), transverse pedicle vertical length (TPVL), pedicle screw trajectory length (PSTL), pedicle angle of attack (PAA), frontal vertebral body height (FVH), posterior vertebral body height (PVH), sagittal midline intervertebral space height (SMISH), horizontal vertebral body angle (HVA), and vertical vertebral body angle (VVA). Differences in the morphological imaging parameters of the L5 vertebrae and pedicles among the three groups were compared.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in age, height, weight, body mass index (BMI), or Pfirrmann grade among the three groups. No significant differences were observed in any of the pedicle parameters between the left and right sides within the groups. Group A showed significantly greater TPVL and PSTL values compared to Group B, while TPW and PAA were significantly lower. No significant difference in SPH was observed between Group A and Group B. When compared to Group C, Group A exhibited significant differences in SPH, TPW, TPVL, and PSTL, but not in PAA. Group B, compared to Group C, demonstrated significant differences in SPH and PAA, but no significant differences were observed in TPW, TPVL, or PSTL. Significant differences were also found in FVH, HVA, and VVA between Group A and Group B, with Group A showing a smaller PVH. No significant difference in SMISH was observed between the two groups. Compared to Group C, Group A showed significant differences in PVH, HVA, and VVA, but no significant differences were found in FVH or SMISH. In Group B, significant differences were noted in FVH and HVA compared to Group C, but no differences were observed in PVH, SMISH, or VVA.

CONCLUSION

Differences in the sagittal morphological parameters of the pedicles and vertebral bodies can be observed between the two types of spondylolysis patients. In the isolated spondylolysis pattern, the pedicles exhibit a "thin, long, and contracted" morphology, while the vertebral bodies present a "stuffed bun" shape, both anteriorly, posteriorly, and superiorly. In contrast, the fused type is characterized by "short, thick, and expanded" pedicles, with the vertebral bodies showing a "less pronounced stuffed bun" shape in the anterior-posterior direction. These morphological differences indicate that spondylolysis separation may involve adaptive stress-induced bone remodeling. Surgeons must pay special attention when choosing surgical techniques, as isolated spondylolysis may present a tendency toward slippage. Caution is advised in performing isolated pars repair surgeries, especially during the placement of pedicle screws, where special attention must be given to the length and direction of the screws to avoid additional damage.

Long-term CT follow-up of patients with lumbar spondylolysis reveals low rate of spontaneous bone fusion

OBJECTIVES

Knowledge about the long-term outcome of patients with lumbar spondylolysis (LS) is limited. This study assessed the frequency of bone fusion in conservatively treated lumbar spondylolysis with photon counting detector computed tomography.

METHODS

Patients with lumbar spondylolysis diagnosed with CT or MRI were prospectively enrolled and underwent CT 5-10 years after initial imaging. Image assessment included evaluation of Meyerding grade, listhesis size, measurement of the lysis gap, and disc integrity on the lysis level. Comparisons were made between bone fusion as the primary endpoint and sex, body mass index, age at diagnosis, follow-up interval, size of listhesis, Meyerding grade, size of the lysis gap, sports activity, and presence of pain.

RESULTS

A total of 39 patients (26.0 ± 3.1 years, 15 female) with lumbar spondylolysis on 41 levels were included after a mean follow-up period of 9.1 ± 2.2 years. Nine patients (22.0%, four female) showed complete fusion of the lysis gap. Patients with bone fusion of the lysis gap had a significantly lower Meyerding grade (p = 0.01), smaller size of the listhesis (p = 0.019), and smaller anterior and posterior lysis gap size (p = 0.046 and p = 0.011, respectively). Unilateral lyses showed significantly higher fusion rates than bilateral lyses (40.0% vs. 16.1%, p = 0.01). No statistically significant difference was found for pain at follow-up between patients with and without bone fusion (p = 0.253).

CONCLUSION

Bone fusion occurred in about a fifth of conservatively treated lumbar spondylolysis after a follow-up period of 9 years. Factors associated with a successful fusion were a lower Meyerding grade, minimal listhesis, and a small lysis gap.

Risk Factors for Nonunion After Nonoperative Treatment for Pediatric Lumbar Spondylolysis: A Retrospective Case-Control Study

BACKGROUND

Pediatric lumbar spondylolysis, a stress fracture of the lumbar spine, frequently affects young athletes, and nonoperative treatment is often the first choice of management. Because the union rate in lumbar spondylolysis is lower than that in general fatigue fractures, identifying risk factors for nonunion is essential for optimizing treatment.

PURPOSE

To determine the risk factors for nonunion after nonoperative treatment of acute pediatric lumbar spondylolysis through multivariate analysis.

STUDY DESIGN

Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3.

METHODS

We analyzed 574 pediatric patients (mean age, 14.3 ± 1.9 years) with lumbar spondylolysis who underwent nonoperative treatment between 2015 and 2022. Nonoperative treatment included the elimination of sports activities, bracing, and weekly athletic rehabilitation, with follow-up computed tomography. Patient data, lesion characteristics, sports history, presence of spina bifida occulta at the lamina with a lesion or at the lumbosacral spine excluding the lesion level, and lumbosacral parameters were examined. Differences between the union and nonunion groups were investigated using multivariate analysis to determine the risk factors for nonunion.

RESULTS

Of the 574 patients, 81.7% achieved bone union. Multivariate analysis revealed that an L5 lesion and the progression of the main and contralateral lesion stages were significant independent risk factors for nonunion. An L5 lesion had a lower union rate than non-L5 lesions. As the main lesion progressed, the likelihood of nonunion increased significantly, and the progression of the contralateral lesion also showed a similar trend. Spina bifida occulta and lumbosacral parameters were not significant predictors of nonunion in this study.

CONCLUSION

We identified the L5 lesion level and the progression of the main and contralateral lesion stages as independent risk factors for nonunion in pediatric lumbar spondylolysis after nonoperative treatment. These findings aid in treatment decision-making. When bone union cannot be expected with nonoperative treatment, symptomatic treatment is required without prolonged external fixation and rest, and without aiming for bone union. Individualized treatment plans are crucial based on identified risk factors.

Rate and Duration of Bone Union for Conservative Treatment in Pediatric Lumbar Spondylolysis

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective case series.

OBJECTIVE

To report the detailed bone fusion rates and duration of treatment in unilateral and bilateral cases of pediatric lumbar spondylolysis (LS).

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Early diagnosis and optimal conservative management for LS are crucial for achieving bony healing without surgery. However, existing research on the conservative treatment of pediatric LS, particularly regarding bone union rates and treatment duration for each stage of bilateral spondylolysis, is limited.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 590 pediatric patients (522 boys and 68 girls) under 18 years of age diagnosed with LS and treated conservatively from 2015 to 2021. The diagnosis was based on computed tomography scans and magnetic resonance imaging findings, with stages classified as very early, early, progressive, or terminal. Patient background, sports history, level and stage of spondylolysis, presence of spina bifida occulta, bone union rate, duration of conservative treatment, and recurrence rate were retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

The overall bone union rate was 81.9%, with a mean conservative treatment duration of 53.7 days. Unilateral LS cases showed decreased bone union rates with stage advancement (very early; 98.2%, early; 96.0%, progressive; 64.3%). Bilateral LS cases with progressive or terminal stage demonstrated low bone union rates (very early/very early; 100%, early/very early; 94.1%, progressive/very early; 66.7%, early/early; 82.9%, progressive/early; 32.3%, progressive/progressive; 23.7%, very early/terminal; 0%, early/terminal; 50.0%, progressive/terminal; 11.1%). The duration of conservative treatment extended as the stage of the main and contralateral lesions progressed, ranging from 39.1 days (very early/none) to 105 days (progressive/terminal). The recurrence rate after bone fusion was 16.6%, with no differences based on lesion stage.

CONCLUSIONS

In this series of 590 patients, conservative treatment yielded high bone union rates for pediatric LS. However, union rates decreased with stage advancement, especially in bilateral cases. These findings provide valuable insights for prognosticating natural history and outcome regarding LS treatment, bone union, and return to activity.

Factors associated with non-fusion after direct pars repair of lumbar spondylolysis with pedicle screw and lamina hook: a clinical and CT-assessed study

BACKGROUND

Pedicle screw and lamina hook (PSLH) technique is an effective and popular method for direct pars repair of lumbar spondylolysis. There is a lack of studies to explore factors that may influence the healing of spondylolysis after direct pars repair surgery. The present study aimed to investigate the factors associated with non-fusion after direct pars repair of lumbar spondylolysis with PSLH technique.

METHODS

A total of 55 subjects (average age 21.1 ± 6.3 years, a total of 120 pars defects) diagnosed with symptomatic spondylolysis and underwent pars repair surgery with PSLH were followed up and their clinical data were analyzed. Subjects were divided into a non-fusion group and fusion group according to whether the pars defect had bony fusion at last follow-up assessed by CT. Radiographic data, data related to spondylolysis and clinical outcomes were collected and compared between groups.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up time of the 55 patients was 24.8 ± 12.0 (12-64) months. Among the 120 pars defects, 101 defects were successfully fused and 19 were not fused according to CT. The fusion rate was 84.2%. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed the factors correlated with non-fusion after pars repair surgery: whether the spondylolysis segment was associated with spina bifida occulta (SBO) (P = 0.001), stage of the defect (P = 0.047), width of the defect (P = 0.002), and disc degeneration (P = 0.014).

CONCLUSION

Direct pars repair by PSHL is a reliable treatment for lumbar spondylolysis with a fusion rate of 84.2%. Association with SBO of the spondylolysis segment, a terminal stage of the defect, a wider defect gap, and grade III disc degeneration may be factors associated with non-fusion after direct pars repair of lumbar spondylolysis with PLSH. Non-fusion patients after pars repair appear to have worse clinical results compared to fusion patients.

Factors associated with return to play following conservative treatment for lumbar spondylolysis among young athletes: A retrospective case series using structural equation modeling

INTRODUCTION

Lumbar spondylolysis is the most common underlying cause of lower back pain (LBP) in young athletes. Conservative treatment methods are often used to reduce pain and promote healing. Several parameters may affect the duration of conservative treatment, such as the time to return to play (RTP), patient behavior, and physical parameters; however, no study has comprehensively assessed the factors that affect the time to RTP.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to determine the factors associated with the time required for RTP among young athletes with early-stage spondylolysis receiving conservative treatment using structural equation modeling (SEM).

METHODS

In this retrospective case series, 137 young athletes (128 males and 9 females, aged 9-18 years) with early-stage lumbar spondylolysis were enrolled. All patients were examined using plain radiography and magnetic resonance imaging and treated conservatively (sports cessation, wearing a corset, therapeutic exercises, and low-intensity pulsed ultrasound radiation). SEM was used to investigate the factors affecting the time to RTP in these patients.

RESULTS

The final model included the following factors: spondylolysis laterality, symptom duration, lower-extremity flexibility, treatment interval, patient adherence, and residual LBP. SEM revealed that patient adherence to physician orders (p < 0.01), treatment interval (p < 0.001), and spondylolysis laterality (p < 0.001) contributed directly to shortened RTP.

CONCLUSION

Patient adherence is essential for reducing the time to RTP among young athletes receiving conservative treatment for early-stage spondylolysis.

Management of low back pain accompanying sagittal plane pathologies in children: Spondylolysis/spondylolisthesis and Scheuermann's disease

Background

Low back pain in childhood was underappreciated for a long time, but recent studies report higher prevalences, up to 70%. Two of the common causes are spondylolyis/spondylolisthesis and Scheuermann's disease. These disorders are relevant in a way they both cause significant back pain, and may disrupt the sagittal spinal balance.

Purpose

To present the current evidence on the diagnosis, natural history and treatment of these disorders with a special focus on sagittal spinal alignment.

Methods

This study is conducted as a literature review.

Results and Conclusions

Spondylolysis and low-grade spondylolisthesis have a benign course and are typically treated conservatively. When pars repair is indicated, pedicle screw-based techniques achieve more than 90% fusion with acceptable complication rates. High-grade spondylolisthesis, however, is frequently progressive. Surgical treatment involves fusion, which can be done in situ or after reduction. Reduction is useful for "unbalanced" patients to acquire sagittal spinopelvic balance, and it is important to distinguish these patients. Despite lowering the risk for pseudoarthrosis, reduction brings a risk for neurologic complications. With re-operation rates as high as 40%, these patients definitely require careful preoperative planning. Scheuermann's disease generally causes back pain in addition to cosmetic discomfort during adolescence. If the kyphosis is lower than 60°, symptoms typically resolve into adulthood with conservative measures only. However, it must be kept in mind that these patients may experience problems with physical performance and have a lower quality of life even when the problem seems to have "resolved". Severe kyphosis and intractable back pain are the most frequently referred surgical indications, and surgery typically involves fusion. Proper utilization of osteotomies and proper selection of the upper and lower fusion levels are of utmost importance to prevent complications in these patients.

Clinical Outcomes of Isobar TTL System with Isthmic Bone Grafting and Pedicle Screw-Vertebral Plate Hook with Direct Repair of Defect for Lumbar Spondylolysis: A Matched-Pair Case Control Study

OBJECTIVE

Although direct isthmic repair, such as PSVPH, did not affect the mobility of the fixed segment and adjacent segment, it has a relatively low rate of isthmic fusion compared with conventional fusion. The Isobar TTL dynamic internal fixation system has been widely used in clinical practice and has achieved satisfactory clinical results. However, the use of the Isobar TTL system in combination with direct isthmic repair for lumbar spondylolysis has rarely been reported. The aim of this study was to compare the clinical and radiologic outcomes between patients who underwent Isobar TTL system and PSVPH with direct repair of defect for lumbar spondylolysis.

METHODS

Stepwise propensity score matching (PSM) for age and sex were performed to keep comparable clinical data between groups in this retrospective and matched-pair case control study. A total of 50 patients diagnosed with lumbar spondylolysis underwent surgical implantation of the Isobar TTL group (n = 25) or PSVPH group (n = 25) from June 2009 to June 2016. Clinical outcomes were assessed using the Oswestry disability index (ODI), and visual analog score (VAS). Radiographic evaluations included range of motion (ROM) and the disc heights of stabilized segment and adjacent segment, adjacent segment degeneration (ASD) and bony fusion. Three-dimensional reconstruction of lumbar CT scan was obtained to evaluate bone fusion of the isthmic at final follow-up. The independent Student's t test and chi-square test were applied to compare the differences between groups.

RESULTS

A total of 25 patients from TTL group were matched to 25 patients in PSVPH group for age, sex, body mass index (BMI), defect side, spondylolisthesis meyerding, and follow-up duration. The intervertebral space height (IH) of stabilized segment at postoperative 1 week and final follow-up in the TTL group was higher than those in the PSVPH group, respectively (P = 0.030; P = 0.013). The ROM of stabilized segment at final follow-up in the TTL group was significantly lower than that in the PSVPH group (P < 0.001). The bony fusion rate at the final follow-up was 88.0% (22/25 cages) in the TTL group and 80.0% (20/25 cages) in the PSVPH group. The ODI score at final follow-up in the TTL group was significantly lower than that in the PSVPH group (P = 0.007).

CONCLUSION

Overall, our data suggest that the Isobar TTL system outcomes are comparable to those in the PSVPH, with a similar high bony fusion rate as PSVPH, especially its wider indications as a new surgery.

Biomechanical Effects of a Novel Pedicle Screw W-Type Rod Fixation for Lumbar Spondylolysis: A Finite Element Analysis

Lumbar spondylolysis involves anatomical defects of the pars interarticularis, which causes instability during motion. The instability can be addressed through instrumentation with posterolateral fusion (PLF). We developed a novel pedicle screw W-type rod fixation system and evaluated its biomechanical effects in comparison with PLF and Dynesys stabilization for lumbar spondylolysis via finite element (FE) analysis. A validated lumbar spine model was built using ANSYS 14.5 software. Five FE models were established simulating the intact L1-L5 lumbar spine (INT), bilateral pars defect (Bipars), bilateral pars defect with PLF (Bipars_PLF), Dynesys stabilization (Bipars_Dyn), and W-type rod fixation (Bipars_Wtyp). The range of motion (ROM) of the affected segment, the disc stress (DS), and the facet contact force (FCF) of the cranial segment were compared. In the Bipars model, ROM increased in extension and rotation. Compared with the INT model, Bipars_PLF and Bipars_Dyn exhibited remarkably lower ROMs for the affected segment and imposed greater DS and FCF in the cranial segment. Bipars_Wtyp preserved more ROM and generated lower stress at the cranial segment than Bipars_PLF or Bipars_Dyn. The injury model indicates that this novel pedicle screw W-type rod for spondylolysis fixation could return ROM, DS, and FCF to levels similar to preinjury.

Diagnostic Utility of Double-Echo Steady-State (DESS) MRI for Fracture and Bone Marrow Edema Detection in Adolescent Lumbar Spondylolysis

To evaluate the ability of double-echo steady-state (DESS) MRI to detect pars interarticularis fracture and bone marrow edema (BME) in spondylolysis, 500 lumber pars interarticularis from 50 consecutive patients (38 males and 12 females, mean age 14.2 ± 3.28 years) with spondylolysis who underwent both MRI and CT within 1 week were evaluated. All participants were young athletes who complained of lower back pain. Fractures were classified into four grades and CT was used as a reference; BME was evaluated in a binary manner and STIR was used as a reference. The diagnostic performance of fractures on DESS and T1WI, and BME on DESS was assessed by two radiologists independently. For fracture detection, DESS showed high diagnostic performance at a sensitivity of 94%, specificity of 99.5%, and accuracy of 98.8%, whereas T1WI showed lower sensitivity (70.1%). Fracture grading performed by DESS showed excellent agreement with CT grading (Kappa = 0.9). For BME, the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of DESS were 96.5%, 100%, and 99.6%, respectively. The inter-rater agreement of DESS for fracture and BME was 0.8 and 0.85, respectively. However, the inter-rater agreement for fracture on T1WI was 0.52. DESS had high diagnostic performance for fracture and BME in pars interarticularis. In conclusion, DESS had potential to detect all critical imaging findings in spondylolysis and may replace the role of CT.

Swinging injuries in competitive baseball players

Injuries are common in competitive baseball players and can occur in all facets of the game. The majority of the existing literature on injuries in baseball players has focused on injuries secondary to the overhead throw with very little attention given to injuries sustained while batting. The baseball swing is a complex, often violent, motion that predisposes batters to a variety of injuries affecting the spine, trunk, pelvis, and extremities. Knowledge of injury patterns that commonly occur during the baseball swing and radiologic findings important to the treating physician can help radiologists provide accurate imaging interpretations that appropriately guide patient management.

Lateral bending differentiates early-stage spondylolysis from nonspecific low back pain in adolescents

BACKGROUND

Early-stage spondylolysis (ESS) is one of the common causes of acute low back pain (LBP) in adolescents. Although accurate diagnosis of ESS is important for providing appropriate treatment, differentiating ESS from other low back disorders is difficult by physical signs alone.

OBJECTIVES

To elucidate the most common characteristic, namely, motion-provoking LBP, in patients with ESS.

DESIGN

Retrospective comparative cohort study.

METHOD

We included and categorized adolescents (n = 112; age, <18 years) with acute LBP (<1 month) into the ESS (n = 71) and nonspecific LBP (NS-LBP) (n = 41) groups based on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings. Patients were evaluated using a visual analog scale (VAS), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and degree of pain using a numerical rating scale (NRS) provoked by hyperextension, hyperflexion, right and left rotations, and lateral bending in standing position.; the value were compared between the 2 groups. A cut-off value of significance was obtained using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis.

RESULTS

The mean scores for VAS and ODI and NRS of each test were as follows (ESS/NS-LBP): VAS, 6.5/6.0; ODI, 19.7/24.6; hyperextension, 4.1/4.1; hyperflexion, 2.4/3.0; rotation, 2.1/2.2; and lateral bending, 2.9/2.2. The ESS group had a significantly greater number of LBP cases provoked by lateral bending than the NS-LBP group. A cut-off lateral bending of 3.5 yielded a diagnosis of ESS.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicate that lateral bending is the greatest motion-provoking characteristic of LBP in patients with ESS.

Characteristics of recurrent cases after conservative therapy in adolescent lumbar spondylolysis

Occasionally lumbar spondylolysis in adolescents will recur after conservative treatment. The goal of this study was to retrospectively review the conditions in which recurrence transpired in a subset of adolescent patients diagnosed with acute lumbar spondylolysis. A retrospective survey was conducted in 141 patients who had been treated for spondylolysis and had obtained bone union. Twenty subjects were selected who had recurrent lumbar spondylolysis after returning to sports activity following the initial spondylolysis treatment. There were 18 males and two females with an average age at the time of initial visit of 13.3 years and 14.1 years at the time of recurrence. The average period of initial treatment was 101 days, and the average time to recurrence after healing was 149 days. There were three cases at L3, two cases at L4 and 15 cases at L5. At recurrence, 18 patients had unilateral involvement and two patients presented with bilateral occurrence. Four cases did not achieve bony union. In this study, the recurrence rate was 13.2%. Eighty percent of cases had recurrence within six months after healing. After recurrence, 20% of the cases reached pseudoarthrosis. It is useful to take regular MRI images to detect recurrence within six months after returning to sports.

Union evaluation of lumbar spondylolysis using MRI and CT in adolescents treated conservatively

BACKGROUND

This study evaluated the union rate of acute lumbar spondylolysis in patients treated conservatively, according to the protocol.

METHODS

The subjects included high school students and younger patients who were diagnosed with lumbar spondylolysis presenting bone marrow edema. We investigated the union rate, the period until union, unilateral or bilateral, vertebral level, laterality (right or left), and pathological stage at the first visit. Some unilateral cases included bilateral spondylolysis with contralateral pseudarthrotic lesion; therefore, the union rate of the "true" unilateral case in which the contralateral side was normal was calculated. We excluded multi-level lesions.

RESULTS

With conservative treatment for lumbar spondylolysis of 189 lesions in 142 cases, 144 healed and 45 were considered as nonunion. The average treatment period until union was 106 days. The union of "true" unilateral cases in which the contralateral side was normal was noted in 68/71 lesions, but that of bilateral cases was noted in 71/94 lesions. The union in L3, L4, and L5 vertebrae was noted in 15/17, 40/49, and 89/123 lesions, respectively. The union was observed in 63/87 on the right and 86/102 on the left. The union was noted in the pre-lysis, early, and progressive stages in 36/39, 81/97, and 27/53 lesions, respectively. Furthermore, the union was noted in stages 0, 1a, 1b, 1c, and 2 in 13/15, 47/52, 30/36, 34/42, and 20/44 lesions, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Accurate union evaluation using CT and MRI showed a union rate of 76% with conservative treatment for spondylolysis. The union rate of the "true" unilateral cases in which the contralateral side was normal was 96%, which was significantly higher than that of the bilateral cases. Moreover, the union rate of lesions in the axial progressive stage and sagittal stage 2 was significantly lower than that of lesions in other stages.

STUDY DESIGN

clinical retrospective study.

Diagnosis and Management of Spondylolysis and Spondylolisthesis in Children

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Spondylolysis is defined as a defect of the pars interarticularis, and spondylolisthesis is defined as a slippage of a vertebra relative to the immediately caudal vertebra.

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Most cases of spondylolysis and low-grade spondylolisthesis can be treated nonoperatively. Depending on a patient's age, nonoperative treatment may include a thoracolumbosacral orthosis (TLSO), physical therapy, and activity modification. Bracing and physical therapy have been found to be more effective than activity modification alone.

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Patients with dysplastic spondylolisthesis are at higher risk for progression and should be monitored with serial radiographs every 6 to 9 months.

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Operative management is recommended for symptomatic patients with failure of at least 6 months of nonoperative management or patients with high-grade spondylolisthesis.

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Surgical techniques include pars defect repair, reduction, and fusion, which may include posterior-only, anterior-only, or circumferential fusion.

Utility of Physical Examination Findings for Predicting Low-Back Pain in Adolescent Patients with Early-Stage Spondylolysis: A Retrospective Comparative Cohort Study

Introduction

This study aimed to elucidate low-back pain (LBP) characteristics, i.e., its qualities, extent, and location, in patients with early-stage spondylolysis (ESS).

Methods

We recruited patients (≤18 years old) who presented with acute LBP lasting up to 1 month. Patients were divided into ESS and nonspecific LBP (NS-LBP) groups based on their magnetic resonance imaging findings; patients showing no pathological findings that might explain the cause of LBP were classified as NS-LBP. All patients were evaluated using the following tests: hyperextension and hyperflexion (pain provocation tests in a standing position), pain quality (sharp/dull), pain extent (fingertip-sized area/palm-sized area), and pain location (left and/or right pain in side [side]/central pain [center]). We have also compared outcomes between the ESS and NS-LBP groups in terms of gender and physical symptoms.

Results

Of 101 patients, 53 were determined to have ESS (ESS group: mean age: 14.3 years old; 43 males/10 females), whereas 48 had no pathological findings explaining the LBP origin [NS-LBP group (mean age, 14.4 years old; 31 males/17 females)]. Chi-squared test has identified gender (male), a negative result on hyperflexion test, pain extent (fingertip-sized area), and pain location (side) to be significantly associated with ESS. Among these, regression analysis revealed that male gender and LBP located on the side were significantly associated with ESS (p<0.05).

Conclusions

Although the hyperextension test is generally considered useful for ESS, we demonstrated that its association is not deemed significant. Our results indicate that male gender, a negative result of the hyperflexion test, fingertip-sized pain area, and LBP on the side may be specific characteristics of ESS. Of these physical signs, male gender and LBP located on the side are characteristic factors suggesting ESS presence.

Rotation-related sports players demonstrate rotation-type lumbar spondylolysis fracture angle and decreased hip internal rotation range of motion

Relationship between sports and spondylolysis fracture angle (SFA), and hip internal rotation range of motion (IR ROM) between the sports groups among athletes with spondylolysis were investigated. Sports requiring repeated rotation of the trunk and hips during most aspects of the activity was defined as rotation-related sports (RRS). The SFA was defined as rotation-type or horizontal-type by using the axial view of the CT scan. Percentage of rotation type and SFA of the non-dominant side for RRS group was significantly greater than those of non-RRS group. Hip IR ROM of RRS group was significantly smaller than that of non-RRS group.

Level of evidence

Level IV.

Immediate functional progression program in adolescent athletes with a spondylolysis

OBJECTIVE

To assess the preliminary evidence for the efficacy and safety of an immediate functional progression program to treat adolescent athletes with an active spondylolysis.

DESIGN

Prospective single-arm trial.

SETTING

Hospital-based sports medicine and physical therapy clinic.

PARTICIPANTS

Twelve adolescent athletes (14.2 ± 2 years, 25% female) with an active spondylolysis.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Clinical outcomes included time out of sport, Micheli Functional Scale (Function and Pain) and adverse reactions. Clinical outcomes were assessed at baseline, 1 month, 3 months and 6 months. Magnetic resonance imaging was performed at baseline and 3 months to confirm diagnosis and assess healing of lesion.

RESULTS

Eleven participants (92%) fully returned to sport in a median time of 2.5 months (75 days; interquartile range 55 days, 85 days). All participants demonstrated marked improvements in pain and function by the end of the program. One participant (8%) had an adverse reaction during care with a significant recurrence of LBP and had not returned to sport by 6 months. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated improvement of the spondylolytic lesion in all but one participant.

CONCLUSION

The immediate functional progression program appears a viable method for treating active spondylolysis and warrants future research.

The Management of Acute Lumbar Stress Reactions of the Pedicle and Pars in Professional Athletes Playing Collision Sports

Acute stress reactions in the lumbar spine most commonly occur in athletes at the pars interarticularis followed by the pedicle. These reactions occur as a result of repetitive microtrauma from supraphysiological loads applied to the lumbar spine. Characteristic motions such as trunk extension and twisting are also thought to play a role and may be sport-specific. Other risk factors include increased lumbar lordosis, hamstring and thoracolumbar fascia tightness, and abdominal weakness. On physical examination, pain is typically reproduced with lumbar hyperextension. Currently, magnetic resonance imaging or nuclear imaging remain the most sensitive imaging modalities for identifying acute lesions. In the elite athlete, management of these conditions can be challenging, particularly in those playing collision sports such as American football, hockey, or rugby. Nonoperative treatment is the treatment of choice with rehabilitation programs focused on pain-free positioning and progressive strengthening. Operative treatment is rare, but may be warranted for patients symptomatic for >12 months. Specialized diagnosis protocols as well as treatment and return to play guidelines from 4 physicians treating elite athletes playing collision sports are presented and reviewed.

Lumbosacral Spondylolysis and Spondylolisthesis

Repetitive stress on the lumbosacral spine during sporting activity places the athletic patient at risk of developing symptomatic pars defect. Clinical history, physical examination, and diagnostic imaging are important to distinguish spondylolysis from other causes of lower back pain. Early pars stress reaction can be identified with advanced imaging, before the development of cortical fracture or vertebral slip progression to spondylolisthesis. Conservative management is first-line for low-grade injury with surgical intervention indicated for refractory symptoms, severe spondylolisthesis, or considerable neurologic deficit. Prompt diagnosis and management of spondylolysis leads to good outcomes and return to competition for most athletes.

Return to Play for Cervical and Lumbar Spine Conditions

Although the safety of contact sports has improved over the years, participation in any sport always carries a risk of injury. When cervical or lumbar spine injuries do occur, prompt diagnosis is essential, and athletes must be held out of the sport if indicated to prevent further harm and allow for recovery. This article highlights some of the most common cervical spine pathologies (stinger/burners, strain, stenosis/cord neuropraxia, disc herniation, and fracture/instability) and lumbar spine pathologies (strain, disc degeneration, disc herniation, fracture, spondylolysis/spondylolisthesis, and scoliosis) encountered in sports and reviews the associated return to play guidelines and expectations for each condition.

Axial Low Back Pain in Elite Athletes

Back pain in sport is a common complaint and seen by athletes, trainers, and treating physicians. Although there are a multitude of pain generators, mechanical sources are most common. Certain sports can lead to increased mechanical and axial loading, such as competitive weightlifting and football. Common mechanical causes of pain include disk herniation and spondylolysis. Patients typically respond to early identification and conservative treatment. In others, surgical intervention is required to provide stability and prevent long-term sequelae.

Factors associated with failure of bony union after conservative treatment of acute cases of unilateral lumbar spondylolysis

Background

If bone union is expected, conservative treatment is generally selected for lumbar spondylolysis. However, sometimes conservative treatments are unsuccessful. We sought to determine the factors associated with failure of bony union in acute unilateral lumbar spondylolysis with bone marrow edema including contralateral pseudarthrosis.

Methods

This study targeted unilateral lumbar spondylolysis treated conservatively in high school or younger students. Conservative therapy was continued until the bone marrow edema disappeared on MRI and bone union was investigated by CT. We conducted a univariate analysis of sex, age, pathological stage, lesion level complicating the contralateral bone defect, lesion level, and intercurrent spina bifida occulta, and variables with p < 0.1 were considered in a logistic regression analysis. An item with p < 0.05 was defined as a factor associated with failure of bony union.

Results

We found 92 cases of unilateral spondylolysis with bone marrow edema and 66 cases were successfully treated conservatively. Failure of bony union in unilateral lumbar spondylolysis with bone marrow edema was associated with progressive pathological stage (p = 0.004), contralateral pseudarthrosis (p < 0.001), and L5 lesion level (p = 0.002). The odds ratio was 20.0 (95% CI 3.0–193.9) for progressive pathological stage, 78.8 (95% CI 13–846) for contralateral pseudarthrosis, and 175 (95% CI 8.5–8192) for L5 lesion level.

Conclusions

Conservative therapy aiming at bony union is contraindicated in cases of acute unilateral spondylolysis when the pathological stage is progressive, the lesion level is L5, or there is contralateral pseudarthrotic spondylolysis.

Minimally Invasive Approach Toward Percutaneous Direct Pars Repair: An Observational Study

BACKGROUND

Spondylolysis refers to a defect of the vertebral pars interarticularis. Percutaneous direct pars repair using a minimally invasive technique was performed in a group of young patients to maintain their spinal segment movement and to restore their normal anatomy. The aim of this study was to present the clinical, functional, and radiologic outcomes of pars defects that were repaired percutaneously via the minimally invasive technique.

METHODS

This was a single-center, nonrandomized, prospective study of the demographic, clinical, functional, and radiographic outcomes of 18 patients (age range, 18-32 years). The visual analog scale for back pain and the Oswestry Disability Index were used to evaluate the functional outcomes. The Macnab criteria were applied to evaluate patient satisfaction after surgery.

RESULTS

All patients were admitted with bilateral pars fracture at the level of L4 (n = 4) or L5 (n = 14). The average duration of clinical follow-up was 16.04 months (range, 12-28 months). With reference to the Macnab criteria, 17 patients (94%) showed perfect or good outcomes. Fusion or bridging of bones was observed on computed tomography in 14 patients (77%) at the last radiological examination.

CONCLUSIONS

Minimally invasive surgery to treat symptomatic spondylolysis is a safe option that minimizes muscle and soft tissue dissection. In this study, good clinical and functional outcomes were achieved in young patients with low complications and high fusion rates using completely percutaneous treatment.

Perceptions of low back pain in elite gymnastics: A multi-disciplinary qualitative focus group study

OBJECTIVES

To explore the multidisciplinary team experience of Low Back Pain (LBP) in elite gymnastics.

DESIGN

A qualitative focus group.

SETTING

British Gymnastics.

PARTICIPANTS

Ten coaching, sports science and medicine multidisciplinary team members working with British gymnasts.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

A topic guide informed by literature/expert opinion enabled discussion that was recorded/transcribed verbatim. Initial inductive analytic process developed theoretical insights. Manual coding using constant comparative methods categorised meaningful themes and sub-themes.

RESULTS

Two key aspects were identified. Emerging themes for LBP presentation included: early identification LBP and influence of multidisciplinary team members on outcomes; factors influencing LBP reporting e.g. coach-athlete relationship; frequent presentations of LBP and accepted norms; athlete history and physical examination e.g. training load. Emerging themes for causation of LBP included: intrinsic risk factors e.g. growth and maturation; extrinsic risk factors e.g. equipment.

CONCLUSIONS

Individual responses of a gymnast to experiencing LBP were important across all themes. Some LBP was perceived as normal. The coach-athlete relationship and support team are crucial decision-makers around training load and adaptation. Early detection will help minimise time loss from training/performance to expedite healing.

Evaluation and management of paediatric and adolescent back pain: Epidemiology, presentation, investigation, and clinical management: A narrative review

This narrative review will summarise a clinical approach to the investigation of back pain in children and adolescent patients, including a discussion of the epidemiology, presentation, investigation and clinical management of back pain in children and adolescents. This will assist the prompt and accurate diagnosis of spinal disorders that require significant medical intervention. Existing evidence suggests a relatively high incidence of non-specific back pain among young people; 27-48% of presentations of back pain in children and adolescents are attributed to non-specific back pain. Low back pain among schoolchildren is often linked to psychosocial factors and only occasionally requires medical attention, as pain is benign and self-limiting. Nonetheless, those young patients who seek medical assistance exhibit a higher incidence of organic conditions underlying the major symptom of spinal pain. A cautious and comprehensive strategy - including a detailed history, examination, radiographic imaging and diagnostic laboratory studies - should be employed, which must be accurate, reliable, consistent and reproducible in identifying spinal pathologies. A specific diagnosis can be reached in 52-73% of the cases. For cases in which a specific diagnosis cannot be made, re-evaluation after a period of observation is recommended. At this later stage, minor symptoms unrelated to underlying pathology will resolve spontaneously, whereas serious pathologies will advance and become easily identified.

The Incidence of Pars Interarticularis Defects in Athletes

STUDY DESIGN

Literature review.

OBJECTIVE

To conduct a literature review of studies reporting the incidence of pars interarticularis defects in athletes of specific sports, in order to allow more targeted prevention and treatment strategies to be implemented for the groups at highest risk.

METHODS

Electronic searches were performed using PubMed, Ovid Medline, EMBASE, Google Scholar, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and Cochrane Database of Controlled Trials from their dates of inception to September 2017, with the following keywords: "spondylolysis," "sports," "low back pain," and "pars defects."

RESULTS

A total of 509 total articles were retrieved, of which 114 were used in the final review. The incidence of pars interarticularis defects was found to be highest in diving (35.38%), cricket (31.97%), baseball/softball (26.91%), rugby (22.22%), weightlifting (19.49%), sailing (17.18%), table tennis (15.63%), and wrestling (14.74%). Only 5 studies reported the management instituted for their participants, and these were all case reports. Of 74 players with spondylolysis in these studies, 70 (94.59%) underwent conservative treatment and 4 (5.41%) underwent surgical treatment. 61 (82.43%) returned to their previous level of play, 6 (8.11%) retired, and the disposition of the final 7 was not reported.

CONCLUSION

The current medical literature provides good evidence that the incidence of pars interarticularis defects is higher in the athletic population, with the highest incidence in diving. There remains no gold standard protocol for the management of pars interarticularis defects. Further research is required to compare conservative therapy to surgical therapy and to compare the various surgical techniques to each other.

Comparison of the sacral table angles by progression stage of lumbar spondylolysis

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective study.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to investigate sacral table angle (STA) values in early-stage spondylolysis. Several studies suggested that the STA of patients with L5 spondylolysis or spondylolisthesis was significantly lower than that of healthy controls. Separation of the pars interarticularis creates shear stress between the upper sacral end plate and L5 vertebra. This was considered the cause of low STA in patients with spondylolysis or spondylolisthesis. However, if a low STA value is obtained in the early stage of L5 spondylolysis, it suggests that low STA does not result in the remodeling of the sacral end plate.

METHODS

Patients with L5 spondylolysis and those with low back pain without pars defect were retrospectively identified from a hospital database in 2014-2016. Pars defect of the spondylolysis was classified into three categories based on CT and MRI results: early, progressive, or terminal stage. The STA difference between groups was calculated using one-way analysis of variance and Scheffe F test, which were used for post hoc testing.

RESULTS

A total of 84 cases of L5 spondylolysis and 70 cases of low back pain were identified. No significant difference was found between the STAs of the early- or progressive-stage spondylolysis and the terminal-stage L5 spondylolysis and low back pain patients. The STA of the terminal-stage L5 spondylolysis was significantly lower than that of low back pain patients.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, patients with early- or progressive-stage spondylolysis do not have low STA. Low STA is seen only in patients with terminal-stage spondylolysis, suggesting that low STA is associated with remodeling changes in response to shear force after onset of spondylolysis. STA value might not important as a prognostic parameter about development of the spondylolysis.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV.

Radiographic Outcomes of Immobilization using Boston Brace for Pediatric Spondylolysis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Spondylolysis is a common cause of lower back pain during youth. The aim of this study is to report the bony union rate and risk factors for non-union of the lumbar spondylolysis of pediatric patients treated with a rigid thoracolumbosacral orthosis (Boston brace).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective review of 68 children (mean age = 13.9 years) treated for spondylolysis with a thoracolumbosacral orthosis. Patient charts and imaging studies were evaluated to identify the bony union rate of the spondylolysis after a minimum of 3 months of immobilization (mean = 4.2 months). Laterality, grade, level, and presence of high signal intensity in the magnetic resonance imaging were evaluated as prognostic factors.

RESULTS

Sixty-eight patients presented with 110 defects. Of them, 46 (42%) were incomplete fractures, 38 (35%) complete fractures, and 26 (24%) pseudoarthrosis. Of these defects, 38 (82.6%), 11 (28.9%), and 0 (0.0%) had bony union at the end of the treatment (p < 0.001). Unilateral defects healed significantly better than bilateral ones (relative risk = 1.71, 95% confidence interval = 1.16-2.54, 17/26 (65%) vs 32/84 (38%), p = 0.014). High signal intensity in the magnetic resonance images before the treatment predicted healing (relative risk = 13.24, 95% confidence interval = 1.93-91.01, 48/87 (55%) vs 1/24 (4.3%), p < 0.001). The level of the spondylolysis (L5 vs above L5) did not affect the healing rate.

CONCLUSION

The union rates of spondylolysis with a thoracolumbosacral orthosis were similar as compared to earlier studies done with a low thoracolumbosacral orthosis. The grade of the defect, laterality, and presence of high signal intensity increased the probability of bony union. A high thoracolumbosacral orthosis (underarm) does not seem to improve the healing rate of pediatric spondylolysis defects.

Bony stress in the lumbar spine is associated with intervertebral disc degeneration and low back pain: a retrospective case-control MRI study of patients under 25 years of age

PURPOSE

Abnormal stress in the lumbar vertebra, also known as bony stress, can be a precursor to degenerative changes which may manifest as low back pain (LBP). However, the prevalence of bony stress in the lumbar spine and its relationship with degenerative changes and LBP is unclear. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of bony stress in the lumbar spine and its relationship with intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration, facet osteoarthritis and LBP in patients under 25 years of age.

METHODS

A retrospective case-control study of 130 patients under 25 years of age was conducted from a population of 493 patients who had lumbar MRI across three imaging centres over three years. A cohort of 55 consecutive patients with bony stress was identified. A control group of consecutive patients (n = 75) without bony stress was also selected from the population.

RESULTS

Bony stress was prevalent in 11% (95% CI [8.4-14.5%]) of patients and was not diagnosed in 36% (95% CI [22-55%]) of these cases. Patients with bony stress had over twofold (OR 2.3, 95% CI [1.1-4.8]) and fivefold (OR 5.3, 95% CI [2.11-13.3]) higher likelihood of having IVD degeneration and LBP, respectively, when compared with the control group. Bony stress was not found to be associated with facet osteoarthritis.

CONCLUSION

Bony stress in the lumbar spine was prevalent in 11% of patients under 25 years of age. It was commonly undiagnosed in radiology reports (not reported in 36% of the cases). Being significantly associated and with an increased likelihood of IVD degeneration and LBP, we posit that bony stress is likely a symptomatic and clinically meaningful diagnostic entity in the assessment of LBP. These slides can be retrieved under Electronic Supplementary Material.

Ultrashort Time-to-Echo Magnetic Resonance Imaging at 3 T for the Detection of Spondylolysis in Cadaveric Spines: Comparison With CT

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study was to compare the diagnostic performance and confidence of conventional, optimized, and ultrashort time to echo (UTE) magnetic resonance (MR) protocols for detection of simulated lumbar spondylolysis in human cadavers. In addition, we sought to demonstrate the feasibility of the UTE technique in subjects with and without spondylolysis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Four human lumbar spine specimens with 46 individual pars interarticularis were randomly left intact (n = 26) or received experimental osteotomy (n = 20) using a microsurgical saw to simulate spondylolysis. The specimens were imaged using a computed tomography (CT) scan along with 3 "Tiers" of MR protocols at 3 T: Tier 1, conventional lumbar MR protocol; Tier 2, optimized conventional protocol consisting of a sagittal oblique spoiled gradient recall echo and axial oblique T1 and short tau inversion recovery sequences; and Tier 3, a sagittal UTE MR sequence. Two blinded readers evaluated the images using a 4-point scale (1 = spondylolysis certainly absent, 2 = probably absent, 3 = probably present, 4 = certainly present) at each individual pars. For each imaging protocol, diagnostic performance (sensitivity, specificity, and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, using the surgical osteotomy as the reference) and confidence were assessed and compared using the McNemar test. Furthermore, 2 human subjects were imaged with the conventional and UTE MR protocols to demonstrate feasibility in vivo.

RESULTS

Diagnostic performance was moderate for Tiers 1 and 2, with a moderate sensitivity (0.70 to 0.75) and high (1.00) specificity. In contrast, CT and Tier 3 UTE MR imaging had both high sensitivity (1.00) and specificity (1.00). The sensitivities of CT or Tier 3 were statistically greater than Tier 1 sensitivity (P = 0.041) and neared statistical significance when compared with Tier 2 sensitivity (P = 0.074). Area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was also significantly greater for CT and Tier 3 (each area = 1.00), compared with the areas for Tier 1 (0.89, P = 0.037) or Tier 2 (0.873, P = 0.024). Diagnostic confidences of CT or Tier 3 were much greater than other Tiers: Both Tiers 1 and 2 had a large percentage of uncertain (>60%, P < 0.001) or wrong interpretations (>10%, P < 0.001), unlike CT or Tier 3 (0% uncertain or wrong interpretations). Preliminary in vivo UTE images clearly depicted intact and fractured pars.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study demonstrated that the detection of pars fractures using a single sagittal UTE MR sequence is superior in performance and confidence to conventional and optimized MR protocols at 3 T, whereas matching those from CT evaluation. Furthermore, we demonstrated the feasibility of in vivo application of the UTE sequence in subjects with and without spondylolysis.

Low-Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound for Early-Stage Lumbar Spondylolysis in Young Athletes

OBJECTIVE

To examine the effect of low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) on early-stage spondylolysis in young athletes.

DESIGN

Case-control study.

SETTING

A single outpatient orthopedic and sports clinic.

PATIENTS

A total of 82 young athletes (80 boys and 2 girls; mean age, 14.8 years; range, 10-18 years) with early-stage lumbar spondylolysis were enrolled in this study. All patients were examined by plain radiography and magnetic resonance imaging.

INTERVENTIONS

Patients received either standard conservative treatment combined with LIPUS (n = 35) or without LIPUS (n = 47), according to the sequence of admission. The standard conservative treatment included thoracolumbosacral brace, sports modification, and therapeutic exercise.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The time required to return to previous sports activities was analyzed by using Kaplan-Meier methods with the log-rank test.

RESULTS

The baseline parameters of both groups were not significantly different. The median time to return to previous sports activities was 61 days [95% confidence interval (CI): 58-69 days] in the group treated with LIPUS, which was significantly shorter than that of the group treated without LIPUS (167 days, 95% CI: 135-263 days; P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that LIPUS combined with conservative treatment for early-stage lumbar spondylolysis in young athletes could be a useful therapy for quick return to playing sports.

Diagnostic Accuracy of Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Computed Tomography Scan in Young Athletes With Spondylolysis

The objective of this study was to determine diagnostic accuracy of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) scans in young athletes diagnosed with spondylolysis. A cross-sectional study was used. Twenty-two young athletes (14.7 ± 1.5 years) were diagnosed as spondylolysis based on a single-photon emission CT. Following the diagnosis, participants underwent MRI and CT scan imaging tests on the same day. The sensitivity and false-negative rate of the MRI and CT scans were analyzed. MRI test confirmed 13 (+) and 9 (-) results while CT test showed 17 (+) and 5 (-) results. The sensitivity and false-negative rate of MRI were, respectively, 59.1% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 36.7% to 78.5%) and 40.9% (95% CI = 21.5% to 63.3%). Furthermore, the sensitivity and false-negative rate of CT scan were 77.3% (95% CI = 54.2% to 91.3%) and 22.7% (95% CI = 0.09% to 45.8%). Our results indicated that CT scan is a more accurate imaging modality to diagnose spondylolysis compared with MRI in young athletes.

Spondylolysis 2019 update

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Provide a comprehensive overview of lumbar spondylolysis, a frequent cause of lower back pain in children and adolescents, from evaluation to management.

RECENT FINDINGS

With the surge of structured sports participation in the pediatric population, spondylolysis is a common ailment that afflicts many young athletes due to rigorous competition that taxes the growing spine with repetitive extension and rotation.

SUMMARY

Spondylolysis is a fracture through the pars interarticularis. When a child presents with lower back pain, spondylolysis should be at the top of the differential. A thorough history and physical examination are essential. In addition, radiographs of the lumbar spine, anterior posterior and lateral views, MRI and, selectively, computed tomography are useful adjuncts to uncover a pars injury. Timely diagnosis facilitates early treatment which includes rest, optimizing bone health, brace treatment, and physical therapy. If delayed or untreated, spondylolysis may result in nonunion or pars defect. If symptomatic, patients may need surgery to fuse the lumbar facet joints or repair the par interarticularis.

Co-diagnoses of spondylolysis and femoroacetabular impingement: a case series of adolescent athletes

Locating the source of lumbopelvic–hip pain requires the consideration of multiple clinical pathways. Although low back pain has an incidence of 50% in the adolescent population, the pathophysiology in this population typically differs from that of other age groups. Dynamic mechanical impairments of the hip, such as femoroacetabular impingement, may contribute to the pathogenesis of adolescent low back pain. Eight adolescent male athletes who presented to a single provider with a primary complaint of low back pain with hip pain or motion loss on exam and were ultimately diagnosed with lumbar spondylolysis and dynamic mechanical hip issues between 2009 and 2011 were included. The age at spondylolysis diagnosis ranged from 15 to 19 years (mean ± standard deviation: 16.3 ± 1.3 years). Seven patients had cam-type impingement, whereas one presented with pincer-type impingement. All patients demonstrated either decreased internal rotation at 90 degrees of hip flexion and neutral abduction or pain on the Flexion Adduction Internal Rotation test on at least one of hip. All eight patients were treated initially with 6 weeks of physical therapy consisting of attempted restoration of hip motion and the graduated progression of hip and spine stabilization exercises. Five patients (62.5%) returned to sport at an average of 11.2 weeks (range: 6–16 weeks). For three patients (37.5%), hip pain and motion loss persisted, thus requiring surgery. All subjects had symptoms for at least 6 weeks, with 6 months as the longest duration. This report is the first documented series of adolescent athletes with co-diagnoses of spondylolysis and femoroacetabular impingement.

Study Information: This retrospective case series was approved by the Institutional Review Board at Hospital for Special Surgery.

Bony Healing of Discontinuous Laminar Stress Fractures Due to Contralateral Pars Defect or Spina Bifida Occulta

Introduction

Although there has been a dramatic improvement in the outcomes of conservative treatment to achieve bony healing due to advances in diagnostic and therapeutic tools, in some patients, the results continue to be unfavorable. The purpose of this study was to investigate the outcomes of conservative treatment in pediatric patients with stress fractures occurring in the lamina that are discontinuous due to a contralateral pars defect or spina bifida occulta (SBO).

Methods

The medical records at our outpatient clinic for 103 consecutive patients (83 boys, 20 girls) with lumbar spondylolysis (LS) were reviewed to identify those who had presented with a stress fracture and a contralateral pars defect or with SBO at the affected lamina level.

Results

Twelve patients (11 boys, 1 girl) of mean age 12.3 (range 8-16) years were identified. Except for 1 stress structure that occurred at L4, all the stress fractures occurred at L5. Six patients had a pars defect, 5 had SBO, and 1 had both. Two of the 6 patients with a contralateral pars defect had early LS, 3 had progressive LS, and 1 had a pedicle fracture. The fracture healed in 1 (50%) of the 2 patients with early LS and in the patient with the pedicle fracture, but did not heal in any of the patients with progressive LS. Two of the 5 patients with SBO at the affected lamina level had early LS and 3 had progressive LS. The bony healing rate was 100% in the 2 patients with early LS and 66.7% in the 3 patients with progressive LS. The fracture healed in the patient with progressive LS and both a pars defect and SBO at the affected lamina.

Conclusions

Contralateral pars defect remains an unfavorable factor for bony healing discontinuous laminar stress fractures.

Spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis: A review of the literature

Spondylolysis is a common diagnosis with a high prevalence in children and adolescents complaining of low back pain. It may be caused by either a defect or fracture of the pars interarticularis due to mechanical stress. Depending on the severity of the spondylolysis and symptoms associated it may be treated either conservatively or surgically, both of which have shown significant success. Conservative treatments such as bracing and decreased activity have been shown to be most effective with patients who have early diagnosis and treatment. Low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) in addition to conservative treatment appears to be very promising for achieving a higher rate of bony union. LIPUS requires more supporting studies, but may prove to become a standard of care in the future. Surgery may be required if conservative treatment, for at least six months, failed to give sustained pain relief for the activities of daily living. Based on studies performed on each of the major surgical treatments we suggest the use of the pedicle screw hook technique and the pedicle screw rod technique due to low rates of hardware failure, increased maintenance of mobility, and lack of a postoperative bracing requirement.

Is the Scotty Dog Sign Adequate for Diagnosis of Fractures in Pediatric Patients with Lumbar Spondylolysis?

Introduction

Recent advances in diagnostic imaging, such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), have allowed early diagnosis of lumbar spondylolysis (LS). However, few outpatient clinics are equipped with such imaging apparatuses and must rely on plain radiographs for the diagnosis of LS. The aim of this retrospective study was to identify how accurately fracture lines can be detected on plain radiographs in patients with LS.

Methods

Patients with a diagnosis of LS were staged as early, progressive, or terminal. We evaluated whether fracture lines could be detected on plain radiographs and compared the detection rates under the following conditions: two directions including anteroposterior and lateral views (2 views), four directions including both oblique views (4 views), four directions including dynamic lateral views (4-D views), and all six directions (6 views).

Results

In early LS, the fracture line detection rate was 11.4% using 2 views, 20.5% using 4 views and 4-D views, and 22.7% using 6 views. In progressive LS, the fracture line detection rate was 54.2% using 2 views, 70.8% using 4-D views, 75.0% using 4 views, and 79.2% using 6 views. The respective detection rates for terminal LS were 85.0%, 100%, 100%, and 100%.

Conclusions

Although terminal LS was diagnosed accurately on plain radiographs in all patients, the detection rates were only 22.7% and 79.2% in patients with early and progressive LS, respectively. These results suggest that plain radiographic films can no longer be considered adequate for early and accurate diagnosis of LS. Advanced imaging procedures, such as MRI in the early diagnosis or CT for persistent cases, are recommended to obtain an accurate diagnosis of early stage LS in pediatric patients requiring conservative treatment to achieve bony healing.

Association between reduced trunk flexibility in children and lumbar stress fractures

Background

We noticed that most of active sports children with low back pain (LBP) have muscle tightness around the pelvis and reduced trunk flexibility. Abnormalities in short-time inversion recovery (STIR) images on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can show stress fracture. Therefore, we investigated the associations among LBP, trunk flexibility, and lumbar stress fractures.

Methods

A total of 130 patients under the age of 18 years complained of LBP were investigated in STIR MRI images. Among these 130 patients, 65 cases of lumbar stress fracture were diagnosed and 65 cases were not diagnosed as a lumbar stress fracture. We compared between a group suspected of stress fracture (suspected group) and a group of stress fracture(stress fracture group)about their trunk flexibility. These groups were investigated about their initial trunk flexibility about below items; Finger floor distance (FFD), Heel to buttock distance (HBD), straight leg raising (SLR).

Results

Significant differences were observed between suspected group and stress fracture group about every items; SLR (P < 0.001), FFD (P < 0.01), HBD (P < 0.002). Most cases of stress fracture group had reduced trunk flexibility, and low flexibility in pelvic area muscles was observed in 93.8% (61/65) of cases at the initial examination. Otherwise, that of suspected group was 73.8%(48/65).

Conclusions

Most patients of lumbar stress fracture had reduced trunk flexibility, and their reduced trunk flexibility might not be caused by LBP. In the early diagnosis of lumbar stress fractures using STIR MRI images, there were indicated that reduced trunk flexibility was one of helpful item for lumbar stress fracture.

Utility of STIR-MRI in Detecting the Pain Generator in Asymmetric Bilateral Pars Fracture: A Report of 5 Cases

Lumbar spondylolysis usually occurs as a stress fracture in the pars interarticularis of the vertebra. It is a prevalent sports-related disorder and a common cause of low back pain. We encountered five athletes (4 males, 1 female) with severe low back pain. Mean age was 14.5 years. All five patients were found to have bilateral pars fracture. In all cases, staging based on the findings from computed tomography scan of the right and left pars fracture was different. On short tau inversion recovery magnetic resonance imaging (STIR-MRI) of the comparatively newer more recently injured side, high signal intensity changes were obvious and dominant at the intra- and extraosseous area, which would indicate tissue edema and/or bleeding. Furthermore, the imaging findings corresponded to the side of the low back pain. In conclusion, STIR-MRI can effectively distinguish between painful pars fracture and painless pars fracture.

Minimally invasive direct pars repair with cannulated screws and recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein: case series and review of the literature

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to describe the use of a minimally invasive surgical treatment of lumbar spondylolysis in athletes by a fluoroscopically guided direct pars screw placement with recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein–2 (rhBMP-2) and to report on clinical and radiographic outcomes.

METHODS

A retrospective review was conducted of all patients treated surgically for lumbar spondylolysis via a minimally invasive direct pars repair with cannulated screws. Demographic information, clinical features of presentation, perioperative and intraoperative radiographic imaging, and postoperative data were collected. A 1-cm midline incision was performed for the placement of bilateral pars screws utilizing biplanar fluoroscopy, followed by placement of a fully threaded 4.0-mm-diameter titanium cannulated screw. A tubular table-mounted retractor was utilized for direct pars fracture visualization and debridement through a separate incision. The now-visualized pars fracture could then be decorticated, with care taken not to damage the titanium screw when using a high-speed drill. Local bone obtained from the curettage was then placed in the defect with 1.05 mg rhBMP-2 divided equally between the bilateral pars defects.

RESULTS

Nine patients were identified (mean age 17.7 ± 3.42 years, range 14–25 years; 6 male and 3 female). All patients had bilateral pars fractures of L-4 (n = 4) or L-5 (n = 5). The mean duration of preoperative symptoms was 17.22 ± 13.2 months (range 9–48 months). The mean operative duration was 189 ± 29 minutes (range 151–228 minutes). The mean intraoperative blood loss was 17.5 ± 10 ml (range 10–30 ml). Radiographic follow-up was available in all cases; the mean length of time from surgery to the most recent imaging study was 30.8 ± 23.3 months (range 3–59 months). The mean hospital length of stay was 1.13 ± 0.35 days (range 1–2 days). There were no intraoperative complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Lumbar spondylolysis treatment with a minimally invasive direct pars repair is a safe and technically feasible option that minimizes muscle and soft-tissue dissection, which may particularly benefit adolescent patients with a desire to return to a high level of physical activity.

Conservative Treatment for Bony Healing in Pediatric Lumbar Spondylolysis

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective review of prospectively collected data.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate recent outcomes of conservative treatment for bony healing in pediatric patients with lumbar spondylolysis (LS) and to identify the problems that need to be resolved.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Several diagnostic and therapeutic techniques for LS have been developed recently, leading to better outcomes for bony healing.

METHODS

Overall, 63 consecutive pediatric patients (53 boys and 10 girls) with LS (average age: 13.8 years; range: 6-17 years) were analyzed. Diagnosis and staging (very early, early, progressive, and terminal) were based on multidetector computed tomography (CT) scans and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). For all patients except those with terminal-stage pars defect, conservative treatment included rest, avoidance of sports, and the use of a thoraco-lumbo-sacral-type trunk brace. Follow-up MRI was performed monthly. When the signal changes resolved, CT scans were obtained to assess bony healing.

RESULTS

Three patients dropped out during the study period. A total of 60 patients were included (50 boys and 10 girls) in this study (follow-up rate: 95.2%), with 86 instances of LS (very early: 36, early: 16, progressive: 15, terminal: 19) in 65 laminae. In the very early stage, the bony healing rate was 100%, and average treatment period was 2.5 months (range: 1-7 months). In the early stage, the bony healing rate was 93.8%, and the average treatment period was 2.6 months (range: 1-6 months). In the progressive stage, the bony healing rate was 80.0%, and the average treatment period was 3.6 months (range: 3-5 months). The average overall recurrence rate was 26.1%. All patients showing recurrence eventually achieved bony healing.

CONCLUSION

High bony healing rates and short treatment periods were observed with conservative treatment in pediatric patients with LS. However, the recurrence rates were relatively high. This issue should be targeted in future studies.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

2.

Temporal Evolution of Disc in Young Patients with Low Back Pain and Stress Reaction in Lumbar Vertebrae

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Although stress-induced bony changes often resolve with conservative treatment, the long-term effects of such mechanical stresses on intervertebral discs have not been studied. We aimed to assess the differences in the temporal evolution of disc in segments of the lumbar spine with and without signs of increased mechanical stresses.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Using MR imaging performed >6 months apart, 2 radiologists evaluated lumbar intervertebral discs for degenerative changes affecting the annulus fibrosus, the nucleus pulposus, and the endplates in 42 patients (22 male, 20 female; mean age, 16.0 ± 3.7 years [range, 7-25 years]) with low back pain and imaging evidence of stress reaction/fracture in the lumbar spine. Data were analyzed for differences in the presence and progression of disc degeneration in stressed versus nonstressed segments.

RESULTS

At baseline, stressed discs had a higher burden of annular fissures, radial fissures, herniation, and nuclear degeneration. Endplate defect burden was comparable in stressed and control discs. At follow-up, the burden of new annular fissures and endplate defects was comparable for stressed and control discs. However, a higher proportion of stressed discs showed worsening nuclear signal intensity grade (14.3% versus 0% control discs; P = .008) and worsening nuclear degeneration grade (11.9% versus 0% control discs; P = .02). An increased risk of progressive nuclear degeneration of stressed discs was observed irrespective of the outcome of bony changes.

CONCLUSIONS

Stressed discs exhibit a higher burden of nuclear and annular degeneration at baseline. These discs have a higher risk of progressive nuclear degeneration irrespective of improvement or worsening of stress-related bony changes.

Timing of Physical Therapy Referral in Adolescent Athletes With Acute Spondylolysis: A Retrospective Chart Review

OBJECTIVES

The purposes of this study were (1) to determine whether the duration of rest before referral to physical therapy (PT) affects the time to make a full return to activity for patients with an acute spondylolysis, (2) to assess the safety of an early referral to PT in patients with an acute spondylolysis.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective chart review.

SETTING

Hospital-based sports medicine clinic.

PATIENTS

The medical charts of 196 adolescent athletes (mean age = 14.3 ± 1.8 years) with an acute spondylolytic injury met the inclusion criteria and were reviewed.

INDEPENDENT VARIABLE

Patients were subgrouped based on physician referral to PT.

PATTERNS

An aggressive referral group (<10 weeks) and a conservative referral group (>10 weeks).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Duration of rest before clearance to a full return to activity and the frequency of adverse reactions during the course of treatment. Safety was assessed by calculating the risk of experiencing an adverse reaction in each group.

RESULTS

Median days to a full return to activity for aggressive referral group (115.5 days, interquartile range 98-150 days) and conservative referral group (140.0 days, interquartile range 114.5-168 days) were significantly different (P = 0.002). Eleven patients had adverse reactions during the course of treatment. The risk of adverse reaction was not statistically significant between groups (P = 0.509).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with acute spondylolysis in the aggressive referral group were able to make a full return activity almost 25 days sooner. No differences in the risk of adverse reactions were noted between aggressive and conservative referral groups.